Cosmetic Dermatology
Laser and light, matched to the concern.
Different wavelengths solve different problems. Redness, brown spots, texture and sun damage each respond to particular devices, which is why choosing the right one matters more than the brand name on it.
Candidacy
What it’s good for
- Background redness and visible vessels
- Brown spots, freckling and sun damage
- Uneven tone and dullness
- Fine lines and texture
- Overall skin quality for people with years of outdoor exposure
How it works
The mechanism, plainly
Light and laser energy is absorbed selectively by a target — hemoglobin in vessels, melanin in brown spots, or water in tissue for resurfacing. The target absorbs the energy, and the body clears or remodels what was treated.
BBL uses broadband light with filters selected for redness or pigment. HALO combines ablative and non-ablative wavelengths in a single hybrid resurfacing treatment.
TheraClear X pairs gentle vacuum with broadband light to clear pores and target acne-causing bacteria — an in-office adjunct to medical acne treatment.
Red light therapy uses low-level light to support skin recovery and comfort, often alongside or after other procedures.
Dr. Gaul selects the device and settings herself, and will tell you when a concern is better addressed medically than with light.
The visit
What to expect in the room
- Your skin is cleansed; eye protection is worn throughout.
- For resurfacing treatments, topical numbing is applied first.
- Treatment time ranges from about 20 to 60 minutes depending on area and device.
- Most concerns respond best to a planned series rather than a single session.
Recovery
Downtime and aftercare
- Redness and warmth for hours to several days depending on the treatment
- Brown spots often darken before flaking away over one to two weeks
- Swelling for a day or two after resurfacing
- Daily sun protection is essential before and after
Honest expectations
What this treatment will not do
Light-based treatment can substantially reduce redness and pigment, but it does not stop your skin from making new sun damage. Maintenance and daily sun protection are part of the result, not an upsell. Individual results vary.
Cosmetic treatments are not covered by insurance. Payment is due at the time of booking, and a cosmetic consultation is $150. Pricing is subject to change, and a consultation may be required before treatment.
This page is general education and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and it does not create a physician–patient relationship. Individual circumstances differ; please discuss your own skin with a qualified clinician. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
Questions
Frequently asked
HALO hybrid fractional resurfacing, BBL broadband light, TheraClear X for acne, and red light therapy as a recovery adjunct. The device is chosen for the concern, not the other way around.
Some treatments can be done year-round with disciplined sun protection; others are better scheduled for months with less sun exposure. We will advise you based on the device and your plans.
Light-based treatment of redness is generally considered cosmetic and is not covered. Medical treatment of rosacea usually is. We will be clear about which applies before scheduling.
Most patients describe a quick snapping or hot sensation. Numbing cream is used for resurfacing treatments, and comfort settings can be adjusted.
Start with a consultation.
Whether something has changed, something has been bothering you for years, or you simply want expert guidance on keeping your skin healthy, we’re here to help.